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servilleta means napkin — a common term in Essential Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: March 17, 2026

📘 Essential Spanish

servilleta

noun • /[ser-bee-YEH-tah]/

napkin

Example:

Pon una servilleta en la mesa.

Put a napkin on the table.

🧠 What does servilleta mean?

A servilleta is a piece of cloth or paper used at meals to wipe the mouth and fingers, and to protect clothing from spills. It is typically placed on the lap or beside the plate during dining.

📚 Extra examples

  • Pásame una servilleta, por favor.
    Please pass me a napkin.
  • La mesa estaba puesta con servilletas de tela.
    The table was set with cloth napkins.
  • Usé una servilleta para limpiar el derrame de café.
    I used a napkin to clean up the coffee spill.
  • Las servilletas de papel son convenientes para picnics.
    Paper napkins are convenient for picnics.

💡 Did You Know?

While cloth napkins (servilletas de tela) are often seen in formal settings, paper napkins (servilletas de papel) are very common for everyday use and in casual dining establishments.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "servilleta"

Synonyms: paño de mesa (less common, can also refer to a table cloth), papel de cocina (specifically paper, can be used for cleaning)

🔍 See more essential spanish words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'napkin' in Spanish?
The Spanish word for 'napkin' is servilleta.
How do you pronounce 'servilleta' in Spanish?
The pronunciation of 'servilleta' is ser-vee-YET-ah.
How do you use 'servilleta' in a sentence?
A common way to use 'servilleta' in a sentence is: 'Necesito una servilleta para limpiar la mesa' (I need a napkin to clean the table).
What is the English translation of 'servilleta'?
The English translation of 'servilleta' is napkin.
Does 'servilleta' change for gender or number?
Yes, 'servilleta' is a feminine noun and changes for number. The plural form is 'servilletas'.
Is 'servilleta' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'servilleta' is a very common word used in everyday Spanish, especially in contexts related to eating and dining.
Does 'servilleta' have slang or double meanings?
No, 'servilleta' does not typically have slang or double meanings; it consistently refers to a napkin.
Is 'servilleta' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
While 'servilleta' is the standard term in both Spain and Latin America, some regions might occasionally use alternative words in very informal contexts, but 'servilleta' remains the universally understood term.

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